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Teen Cannabis Use Cuts Brain Iron, Raises Addiction Risk

6/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Brown University researchers found teen cannabis use lowers tissue iron in dopamine-related brain regions.
The MRI study measured tissue iron in 81 teens aged 14-17.
Higher potency, more frequent use, longer intoxication, and disorder severity each linked to lower tissue iron.
About 10-20% of U.S. adolescents report cannabis use, suggesting early use may raise addiction risk.

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Story summary

Brown University researchers found teen cannabis use lowers tissue iron in dopamine-related brain regions.
The MRI study measured tissue iron in 81 teens aged 14-17.
Higher potency, more frequent use, longer intoxication, and disorder severity each linked to lower tissue iron.
About 10-20% of U.S. adolescents report cannabis use, suggesting early use may raise addiction risk.